Andoni Iraola used his first press conference as Liverpool manager to issue a blunt demand for new signings and to sketch a tactical identity built on relentless energy. “We need more players, we know this,” the 44-year-old Spaniard said, confirming the club is working to add to the early arrivals of defender Jeremy Jacquet and winger Victor Munoz. He promised supporters a side that is “intense, aggressive and vertical,” a style he believes will reconnect a disillusioned fanbase with the team after a season that yielded only a fifth-place Premier League finish and no European qualification.

Iraola inherits a squad depleted by the departure of Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, and by long-term injuries to Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni. His predecessor, Arne Slot, was dismissed in May, just a year after delivering the league title, a decision that underscored the club’s exacting standards. German media now report that Slot is in advanced talks to become head coach of the Netherlands, with Liverpool prepared to subsidise his salary during the first year of a national-team contract to smooth the transition. Should the appointment be confirmed, Slot could make his debut in a Nations League fixture against Germany in September, potentially facing Jürgen Klopp, his own predecessor at Anfield and the newly installed Bundestrainer.

Iraola’s unveiling also drew attention to his unusual contractual philosophy. Indonesian outlets have highlighted his insistence on a two-year deal, a pattern he has followed at every club he has managed, from Rayo Vallecano to Bournemouth. “For a coach, the contract is not crucial,” he explained. “I don’t want to be in a place just because I’m tied to a contract. If you are happy, I am happy. But a coach has to prove his worth every year, especially at a club like Liverpool.” The stance reflects a self-assurance forged during three seasons on the south coast, where he lifted Bournemouth from 12th to a sixth-place finish and a first Europa League qualification.

Beyond tactics and transfers, Iraola signalled an intent to immerse himself in the city rather than retreat into a training-ground bubble. “I’m ready for the scrutiny,” he said. “I want to experience the city and everything that comes with managing Liverpool.” He confirmed that Harvey Elliott, returning from a frustrating loan at Aston Villa, will be given a chance to revive his Anfield career, and that pre-season will be used to assess how best to adapt his high-intensity approach to the squad’s specific strengths.

Liverpool begin their preparations this week, with the Premier League campaign opening away to Newcastle on 23 August. For Slot, the path now leads towards Amsterdam and a possible reunion with Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch in the Oranje setup, while Iraola’s immediate task is to deliver the signings and the style he has so publicly demanded.